[Gustan Cho]

GCA Forums News Daily Report: Friday, April 18, 2025

Published on April 18, 2025, by GCA Forums News

Thank you for following GCA Forums News and Alerts. In today’s report, August home sales hit an extraordinary drop, and mortgage rates are soaring as Trump’s tariffs deliver a heavy blow. The Federal Reserve updates everything, including automotive, sanctuary city policies, and DEI…This is GCA Forums News. Let’s jump straight into the details.

Real Estate & Housing News: Foreclosure Trouble

In line with previous trends, the existing home affordability issues remained a concern. Home sales, on the other hand, continue to show volatility. As the National Association of Realtors reported, existing home sales dropped 3.4% in March 2025 due to elevated interest rates hindering potential buyers. The price per home remained stagnant at $394.900. For those seeking to purchase a home for the first time, the numbers became even more staggering for first-home buyers, where only 28% of the sales were recorded.

GCA Forums News for April 18, 2025: Key Highlights:

Inventory Compared to Demand:

• The housing supply captured by Zillow inched up to 4.2 months, still below the balanced range of 5-6 months.
• Demand softened in high-cost San Francisco markets, whereas Midwest locations such as Kansas City experienced price growth of 4.5%.

Regional Trends:

• Sun Belt markets cooled to 3.6% price growth, while Northeast cities such as Philadelphia showed strength.
• Investors narrowed their focus to multifamily rentals, yielding 3.8% growth, according to Rent.com.

Rental Market:

• Per X posts, investor interest amid legislative scrutiny rose as apartment rents surged by 3.7% year-over-year.

How This Impacts You:

• Budgets constrain buyers, while sellers feel the heat regarding pricing.
• As discussed on April 12, 2025, investors are moving towards rentals and distressed properties.

GCA Forums Discussion:

• Are you purchasing or waiting?
• On the GCA Forums, let us know your plans and strategies!

Burgeoning Spending:

• Mortgage Rate and Interest Rate Hikes
• Policies and inflation have caused a surge in mortgage rates.
• Based on data from your April 16, 2025, blog, Freddie Mac had observed the 30-year fixed rate at 7.28%, up from 6.91% on April 16. Refinance rates hit 7.06%, while 15-year rates reached 6.52%.
• According to your April 17, 2025, update, the 10-year U.S. Treasury yield after stagnation was resting at 4.26%, slightly up from 4.25% after Powell’s speech.

The Reason For The Increased Rates

Inflationary Influences:

• The Bureau of Labor Statistics reported a 3.4% CPI, accounting for tariffs raising operational costs and exceeding the Fed’s target of 2%.

Federal Reserve Stance:

• Based on information provided by Powell on April 16, no cuts are expected, maintaining the highly restrictive borrowing costs.

Bond Market Volatility:

• Yields remain elevated due to fears of tariffs and investors shifting towards safe-haven assets, per X sentiment.

Impact on Borrowers

• The cost of a $500,000 loan at 7.28% is $3,414 a month, or 200 more than on April 1.

FHA VA Loans:

• Per your VA loan blog dated April 14, 2025, approvals were lessened due to stricter overlays despite rates remaining 6.3 to 6.6 percent.

Non-QM/DSCR Loans:

• Market analysis shows demand rose by 17% even though investor rates reportedly reached 8.1%.

Why This is Important

• The higher numbers are making buyers reluctant and refinancing options unavailable.
• As you examined on April 2, 2025, a non-QM or adjustable-rate mortgage will solve these complex scenarios.

Insider Advice:

• Lock in rates to protect against future increases.
• Consult our GCA Forums experts for suggestions!

Business News in Focus: Markets Stumble

• Following the speech from Federal Chairman Jerome Powell on April 16, the business markets experienced another bumpy ride.
• As per the April 17, 2025, update, the Dow Jones Industrial Average declined 1.2%, reaching 40,178 and dropping from 40,666 post-speech.
• In the meantime, precious metals continued upward movements, with gold reflecting a price of $3,320/oz and silver at $34.50/oz because of safe-haven demand.

Key Market Performances:

S&P 500:

• A decline of 1.8% was reported, with technology and consumer staples leading the decline.

Nasdaq:

• Declined 2.5%, impacted by restrictions on semiconductor exports, per X posts.

Crypto:

• Bitcoin dropped to $62,100, and real estate tokenization stagnated.

Commodities:

• Oil increased by 3.1%, hitting $77/barrel, which is associated with ongoing trade tensions.

Impacts:

• Market volatility affects confidence, lending, and spending on houses.
• As you cited on April 15, 2025, this is essential.

GCA Forums Buzz:

• Are you making the move to metals?
• Jump on the GCA Forums to discuss tactics!

Economic Report: Growth Slump, Rising Risks

The economy struggled to balance growth with risks caused by tariffs. According to the Bureau of Economic Analysis, GDP growth for Q1 2025 has been restated to 2.1%, previously reported as 2.2%, which reflects the trade disruption. The Consumer Price Index (CPI) also increased with tariff-related costs, citing a 3.4% rise, per BLS data.

Key Indicators:

According to the BLS, unemployment was 4.1%, with 195,000 jobs created in March. Services experienced growth; however, manufacturing showed a decline.

Your April 15, 2025, concern highlights wage growth at 4.2%, lagging 6.1% in home price growth, compressing affordability.

Recession Fears:

• Economic models indicate that the impact of tariffs increased the odds of a recession by 40% in 2026.

Why it Matters:

Economic slowdowns affect mortgage approvals and buyers’ purchasing power, which are the key focus for your audience, according to messages sent by March 31, 2025.

• How is the economy impacting you?
• Share views on GCA Forums!

Federal Reserve Board & Jerome Powell: Tensions Escalate

• The Federal Reserve has come under fire, spearheaded by Jerome Powell.
• Powell fell under scrutiny after his April 16 address, which sparked an 800-point drop in the Dow, as reported in your April 17, 2025, update.
• Legal experts, alongside your April 15, 2025, inquiry, have stated that President Trump’s alleged lawsuit seeking to kill the Fed or fire Powell is sheer speculation and remains without evidence.

Key Updates:

Rate Stance:

• According to a filing based on data, the Fed Funds rate was unchanged at 4.75-5%, with no expected cuts until late 2025.

Trump’s Rate Cut Lobbying:

• According to X posts, Trump doubled the need to lower the rate to 2.5% and 3% to boost housing chances. Still, Powell fiercely opposed it, citing inflation risks.

Powell’s Future:

• His term extends until 2026, and analysts predict he will prioritize stability over political pressure.

Why it matters:

• Fed policies drive the rates and confidence in the economy that impact your readers’ plans.
• This is in response to your request for April 16, 2025.

GCA Forums Question:

• Will Trump have any influence on Fed policy?
• Get in touch with our experts via the GCA Forums!

Trump’s Tariffs: Their Economic Ripple Effects

• As stated in your April 16, 2025, blog, Trump’s 25% tariffs on imports, including a major focus on China, continued to reshape markets, resulting in an 80% drop in U.S.-China trade.
• Based on research findings, the World Trade Organization expects a global trade recession.

Impacts:

Economy:

• The forecast suggests a projected GDP growth result of – 0.8%.

Inflation:

• Expected a 1% spike in CPI by Q2 2026 while maintaining high rates.

Employment:

• A possible increase of 0.5% is due to retail and tech layoffs.

Interest Rates:

• Treasury yields exceed 4.2% while mortgage rates anchor at 7% plus in floor terms.

Why it matters:

• As you requested on April 15, 2025, higher tariffs increase expenses and credit, damaging the budget and reducing lending.

Expert Insight:

• Hedge with fixed-rate loans.
• Don’t forget to join our GCA Forums for tariff tips!

Major Factors Contributing To Housing Market Volatility:

According to your April 15, 2025, question, housing market volatility remains due to elevated rates and economic uncertainties.

Key Factors:

High Rates:

• According to Redfin, a 7.28% rate caused a 12% drop in demand for coastal markets.
• According to Zillow, inventory Squeeze: 4.2 months’ supply kept prices up.

Economic Concerns:

• Tariffs and Ellis’s recession talk kept buyers away, and sellers stood firm.

Policy Changes:

• VA loan ceilings increased to $510,400, which aids veterans. Still, approval processes are slow due to regulation gaps, as per your April 14, 2025, blog.

Why does the above matter?

Volatility demands precise strategic timing; buyers need adaptable financing, and investors need preferential prices.

Resource Alert:

• Use our mortgage calculator to test budgets on GCA Forums!

Concerns About Recession, Volatile Stock Market, and Potential Crashes:

• Per your April 15, 2025, request, the stock market’s 1.5% weekly drop worsened existing recession concerns.
• Dow’s 800-point drop, as discussed in the update on April 17, set the tone alongside today’s 1.2% drop, indicating no progress due to ongoing tariff fears.

What is Happening:

Volatility Index(VIX):

• Increased to 25, highlighting growing tensions.

Sector Developments:

• Energy improved; tech and retail declined.

Crash Odds:

• Analysts project a 25% likelihood of a 10% correction by August.

Investor Moves:

• Allocations into gold and cash heightened, per X posts.

Burning issue:

• Wealth and lending volatility simultaneously influence volatility and housing decisions, April 9, 2025.

GCA Forums Commons

GCA Forums Focus:

• Should the bot lock your prediction and brace you for a crash?

Business Funding and Lending Markets: Caution Reigns

As banks stabilized amid tariffs and market volatility, the lending focus, March 28, 2025, notes increased caution in the lending markets.

Commercial Lending:

Volume:

• $583 billion in 2025, marking a $71 billion increase, per your April 16, 2025.
• Your blog forecasts an increase driven by multifamily and logistics.

Rates:

• Averaged 7.8%–9.4 per CBRE as banks remained selective.

Trends:

• Construction fell by 14 percent while green energy soared by 11 percent.

Residential Mortgage Lending:

Volume:

• According to the MBA, applications decreased by 14% due to elevated rates.

Trends:

• Non-QM loans expanded by 18%, aiding self-employed borrowers, per your bank statement loan blog dated April 2, 2025.

Industry:

• Rigid lending standards were too dominant.
• X posts suggest a cutoff at 680+ credit scores.

Business Funding:

SBA Loans:

• 8.4% interest rates with more stringent green lights.

Venture capital:

• 12% surge in funding for real estate tech, an automated tool focused on.

Why It Matters:

• As per your April 12, 2025, focus, housing, and growth are particularly important for professionals as they are shaped by lending.

Expert Tip:

• Look into portfolio loans for added adaptability. Dive into our GCA Forums lending conversations!

Automotive Markets: Tariff Challenges Intensify

Your April 16, 2025, blog revisited how the automotive industry struggled with earning cost tariffs but also showed some strengths.

Key Segments:

Cars:

• Sedans, such as the Honda Accord, had a 4.8% sales increase, but tariffs could add $3,000 to prices.

Exotic Cars:

• Orders for the Ferrari 488 Pista went up 10%, and according to dealership reports, the car is rated resilient.

Trucks/SUVs:

• The Ford F-150 and Jeep Wrangler saw stable sales amidst the supply chain issues.

Motorcycles:

• Sales for the Yamaha MT-09 rose 7.5% due to spring demand.

Commercial Vehicles:

• There was a 6.2% increase in delivery vans supporting e-commerce.

Fleet Sales:

• According to your April 16, 2025 data, rental fleets increased by 9%, while sales to commercial and government entities declined by 6%.

Why It Matters:

Just so you know, the auto trends on April 15, 2025, as you’ve been interested, were pointers to the economic health, which impacts consumer and business budgets.

GCA Forums Inquiry:

• Do tariffs have an impact on the cost of your car?
• Tell us on the GCA Forums!

Sanctuary Cities: Chicago and Illinois News

Sanctuary cities that do not fully cooperate with federal immigration enforcement have about your request as of April 15. Chicago and Illinois are still focal points. Chicago (Mayor Brandon Johnson):

Policy Stance:

• Johnson supported sanctuary policies and prioritization of housing initiatives. Yet, he had to cope with budgetary constraints by not supporting migrants.
• The city’s data indicates that 3.3% property tax increases put an additional burden on homeowners.

DOJ Lawsuit Claims:

• In the case of your query, no verified evidence supports claims that the U.S. Department of Justice intends to sue or arrest Johnson.
• Some legal analysts contend that such claims do not conclusively lack confirmation from the DOJ.

Illinois (Governor JB Pritzker):

Policy Stance:

• Pritzker continues to defend the sanctuary state status, claiming it benefits the economy, but critics argue it strains services.
• No definitive conclusion was drawn regarding the direct impact on the housing market.

DOJ Lawsuit Claims:

• Unsubstantiated claims against Pritzker have been found, and the DOJ has not issued a statement.

Market Effect:

• Chicago’s rental market saw an increase in demand by 4.7%, attributed to the growth of varied demographics.

Why It Matters:

• These policies affect the restricted regions economically and socially, so your audience raised concerns, which you tried to answer in response to your inquiry on April 16.

Join the GCA Forums:

• How do sanctuary policies impact your market?

DEI – Diversity, Equity, Inclusion: Is it National Impact and Impact on Housing?

• DEI deals with policies to ensure equality for discriminated or marginalized groups.
• As promised on April 15, 2025, DEI will be scrutinized in 2025.

In Housing/Mortgage Markets:

In Fair Lending, a HUD lawsuit against lenders for discriminatory practices resulted in providing Fair Housing Act compliance on $ 15 M. Culpable Fair Housing Act Compliance was reported by the burst in discriminatory policy enforcement during the CAP period.

Access Programs:

• Per Fannie Mae, despite rollbacks, DEI-inspired grants helped 22,000 minority buyers.

Criticism:

• Some believe that DEI slowed down processes. However, according to industry analysis, there is not enough delay.

National Impact:

Policy Rollbacks:

• As stated in your April 16, 2025, blog, the Trump government repealed some executive orders targeting DEI, stopping initiatives from federally and privately funded sectors.

Workplace:

• Companies with DEI documented 23% better retention, which means that there were fewer cases of employees leaving.
• Based on court documents X, legal battles also did happen.

Why?

• You focus on accessing the industry practices issues in lending that persist because of DEI.
• Your note “April 16, 2025” indicates time-restricted focus.

GCA Forums:

• Does DEI negatively or positively impact the housing market?
• Sound off in the GCA Forums!

Industry of Housing & Mortgage Professionals: Responding to the Headwinds

• Your focus on April 12, 2025, should note that housing and mortgage professionals were challenged but demonstrated adaptability in the sector.
• First, let’s break down the comments and quotes provided and then try to explain what matters the most in the eyes of the task trainee.

Mentions of Key Industry Professionals

Loan Officers:

• In your April 14, 2025, blog post, you mentioned that originations declined by 12.1%, which has shifted focus to non-QM and VA loans.

Realtors:

• According to NAR, 1.3 million active agents rely on virtual tours and AI.

Appraisers:

• Fees have increased by 6.5%, reflecting costs driven by tariffs.

Non-Licensed Professionals

Processors:

• According to your April 17, 2025, blog, they handled 13% more judgments in manual underwriting.

Marketing Teams:

• Budgets for digital ads increased by 13%.
• They are focusing on attracting investors.

Challenges:

• High interest rates and market volatility limited deal flow, leading to a focus on rentals and foreclosures.

Why It Matters:

• As you noted on April 9, 2025, “the industry operates on people, so professionals shape needs.”

Do you Consider Yourself a Strategy-Honing Turnabout Expert?

• Join us on the GCA Forums!

Engagement & Discussions: Community Highlights

As stated, today’s news fueled even greater GCA Forum debates, boosting engagement. Please take a look at the focus on April 2, 2025.

Trending Topics:

• “Will tariffs kill affordability?” – Members analyzed the impact of tariffs on housing affordability.
• Non-QM vs. Conventional” – which is more favorable for borrowers?

Viral Story:

• $650k fixer-upper sold for 1.3M and sparked threads with the investors.

Ask an Expert:

• A veteran seeking info on VA loans with judgments received strategies from many experts highlighted during our April 17, 2025, blog.

Poll:

• 66% predict interest rates to reach 7.5% by September.

Engagement Drives Community:

• Working With You Supporting Solutions Everywhere on March 31, 2025.

Your Money Story Is Important: Don’t Forget To Highlight Any Tariff or Loan Stories on the GCA Forums

March 18, 2025, will see highly impacted policy, unsettled rate interface, and volatile brokerage systems managed within The GCA Forums Headline News Daily Report. Our target market will receive untangled guidance and solutions ranging from housing challenges to tariffs. Lending, autos, sanctuary cities, DEI, and the broader sphere of real estate look no further, which is why we cover all.

Next Directive:

• Participate in GCA Forums Initiate at gcaforums.com
• Mobilize the Community By Sharing This Report

Engagement With Tools Implementation Planning Using Mortgage Calculators

• Enable notification, and we will unfurl your anticipated plans together.

[Connie]

Below are the leading stories of the housing, business, and mortgage news for April 18, 2025:

Housing News

Further Rise in Home Prices:

• According to the most recent report, home prices have increased 8% year-over-year due to strong demand and limited availability.
• Economists believe the trend will continue, especially in metropolitan areas with high home competition.

New Initiatives To Advertise Affordable Housing:

• Some cities have declared new policies for lower-income housing, aiming to modify zoning laws to enhance and accelerate the construction of affordable housing.

Business News

Tax Return Growth In Technology:

• Major tech firms exceeded their earnings projections for the last quarter due to cloud computing and AI services growth.
• This boosted market confidence and increased share prices in the industry.

Resiliency in Retail:

• Coming off uncertain economic conditions, retail sales also received a positive lift in March. They increased by 4%, translating to higher customer spending and a broader economic recovery from COVID-19 disruptions.

Mortgage News

Mortgage Rates Bear Steadily:

• With rate volatility settling down towards 6.5%, experts predict heightened activity within the housing market as buyers regain confidence in financing options.
• Your banks have recently launched several novel mortgages with innovative payment options for first-time buyers.
• These initiatives include lower initial payment requirements and reduced closing costs.
• Given current price inflation, these products ease the burden of home ownership on newly emerging buyers.

The above-mentioned anecdotes perfectly weave together the latest real estate trends, the vibrancy of the business climate, and the transformations within mortgage services. As things unfold, interested parties carefully observe these trends as they influence the future economic landscape.

[Marilyn]

How might the stabilized mortgage rates affect home sales?

[Gustan Cho]

The home sales market can benefit positively from static mortgage rates in the following ways:

Higher Confidence Level Among Buyers.

When mortgage rates stabilize, prospective buyers may feel less stressed about their purchasing abilities, as the rate oscillation will not bother them. This helps widen the market.

Enhanced Affordability.

With stabilization, rate payment fluctuations and their unpredictability become minimal, allowing buyers to plan better. Increased affordability also encourages sellers to receive more bids on their homes.

Motivation for New Home Buyers.

Programs permitting lower down payments can become more useful in a low-rate environment. New buyers who are very sensitive to rates are likelier to purchase homes.

High Market Activity.

Purchasers are no longer feeling time-sensitive pressure, so real estate agents and sellers may begin noticing increased demand and activity, resulting in higher listings and better options for buyers.

Reduced Closing Time.

Increased market activity leads to faster lender application processing times, which smooths transactions for buyers and results in quicker closing times.

Steady mortgage rates create a more conducive atmosphere for selling homes. This could encourage more people to buy homes and increase market activity. This may lead to an improved housing market because buyers and sellers would respond well to the organized firm rates.

[Marilyn]

What factors could counteract these positive effects?

[Gustan Cho]

The combination of the effects discussed above, together with factors like stunted home sales, can also be a result of:

Countered Economic Effects

Concerns regarding a recession or job security, in general, can trump inflation, stagnate buyers’ enthusiasm, and negatively impact their present and future purchasing decisions regardless of rate moderation.

Rate Affordability

In context with the countered economic effects and elevated home prices, deeming homes “unaffordable” can pose serious threats to market participation.

Market Limitations

Limited availability of homes and a restricted choice can lead to an increase in competition and bidding wars, which may stifle potential buyers’ participation in the real estate market.

High Lending Standards

Increased and stricter down payment restrictions or credit score dictates can lower the qualifying buyer demographics, countering sales volume.

Buyers’ Needs Altering the Market

Increases in demand created by buyer needs shifts, such as more space or transitioning to suburban/rural locations, can drive demand regardless of the rate changes.

Unsurprisingly Impacted Government Policies

Changes in tax policies and housing or homebuyer incentives can negatively affect the dynamics of purchasing and living properties.

Balanced mortgage rates can benefit home sales, yet these opposing elements emphasize the housing market’s complexities. Economic health, personal situations, and weather can influence buyers and shift sales patterns.

[Marilyn]

GCA Forums Headline News: Supreme Court Overturns Boasberg Decision & Top Stories, April 18, 2025

Publisher GCA Forums News

GCA Forums News Daily Report covers housing, business, and mortgage news sponsored by Gustan Cho Associates (GCA). Today, we focus on the Supreme Court’s reversal of Judge James Boasberg’s ruling regarding Trump’s administration’s deportation policy because, as one partisan observer put it, “he looks like a fool.” We also cover soaring mortgage rates and unprecedented turbulence in the housing market, Trump tariffs, and more that interest Trump voters, home buyers, and financial professionals. For an in-depth analysis of all these important issues, join us at gcaforums.com.

Supreme Court Overturns Judge Boasberg’s Decision—Context and Consequences

On April 7, 2025, the US Supreme Court, in a 5-4 ruling, reversed the Termer restraining orders (TROs) issued by US District Judge James Boasberg, which halted the Trump administration’s enforcement of the Alien Enemies Act of 1798 to deport alleged Venezuelan gang members, especially affiliated with Tren de Aragua, to El Salvador. The ruling focused on venue and judicial power, bypassing the substance of the deportation policy. Yet, controversy over Boasberg’s judicial activism and public sentiment has been set in motion as expected.

Case Summary:

Boasberg’s Orders:

On March 15, 2025, Boasberg signed Temporary Restraining Orders (TROs), stopping deportations following a 2018 discriminatory Alien Enemy Framework Act put into law by President Trump for alleged gang members on due process grounds. Dismally, he verbally commanded that planes ferrying deportees take back passengers. Yet, at least two flights dumped over 200 inmates into a maximum prison in El Salvador.

Trump’s retort:

• In a fit of rage, Trump roasts Boasberg by calling for his impeachment and demanding that he be a radical left lunatic shredding him on his Truth social media.
• What followed stunned many, as Chief Justice John Roberts issued a rare rebuke, stating, “Impeachment is not an appropriate response to disagreement concerning a judicial decision.”

Supreme Court’s Decision:

• The decision states that Boasberg could not be granted jurisdiction, arguing that he is bound by the order geographically.
• This is because challenges against deportations under this Act are initiated by habeas petitions in the district where the migrants are detained (in Texas), not Washington, DC.
• As customary, the majority stressed the importance of pointing out the associated “reasonable notice” to which deportees are entitled before removal.

Contempt Proceedings:

On April 16, 2025, Boasberg determined there was “probable cause” to believe that Trump administration officials were criminally contemptuous for disobeying his orders from March 15. He said that the Supreme Court’s ruling did not excuse prior disobedience. He set the deadline of April 23, 2025, for the administration to provide an explanation or face prosecution.

Does Boasberg “Look Like a Fool”?

The argument that Boasberg “looks like a fool” comes from a series of X posts and conservative commentators claiming that his decisions were not only overreaching but also misguided and set for reversal. As an illustration,

@PhilHollowayEsq claimed that Boasberg did not have jurisdiction and that the Supreme Court ruling supported this, so he stated that the plaintiffs in the case had judge-shopped, per.

@codynorthwood rejoiced the move to conservative-dominated Texas courts, claiming the D.C. tendency was too biased.

This argument does a great disservice to the reality of the situation, especially the cut-and-dry narrative.

Judicial Context:

Boasberg, an Obama appointee and the chief of the D.C. District Court, had to deal with the lawsuit by the ACLU and Democracy Forward, which concerned due process violations. His temporary restraining orders guaranteed judicial scrutiny, a value the Supreme Court endorsed.

Contempt Rationale:

Boasberg contended his orders were in force until something changed them and that not complying and letting flights proceed was contemptuous disregard. Contempt proceedings are unusual but fall under any judge’s discretion.

Negative Evaluation of Narrative:

Boasberg’s record is far from that of a “fool,” as he has ruled in Trump’s favor multiple times, like in 2017 when he denied Trump’s access to tax records. The Supreme Court’s decision to change the case’s location also does not undermine his legal analysis, as the reason for the dispute shifts the case to the borders of law and does not touch upon the merits.

Recent Changes: April 18, 2025.

Contempt Deadlock:

Trump’s presidency has appealed Boasberg’s ruling to the contempt Trump holds over his court, arguing in the D.C. Circuit Court of Appeals that his order violation stemmed from ‘fundamentally misconceived’ reasoning. Through Steven Cheung, the White House issued angry promises of retribution, framing it as a fight to shore up Trump’s campaign pledge to remove “criminal illegal migrants.”

Potential Consequences:

If the DOJ decides not to file contempt charges, Boasberg could appoint a private prosecutor, but this option has its own rules. The administration may “purge” contempt by complying with his demands by April 2, 3, which softens the transparency outlined in his order.

Per May 5, 2025.

Link to the Housing Sectors:

Immigration reenactment calls for different policies, such as deportation, which sanctuary cities like Chicago want to keep as they support roughly 5% rental growth tied to area diversity and population, as your blog indicates on April 18, 2025. Reports from the industry suggest that uncertain immigration policies may lead to reduced demand.

Why It Matters:

The case showcases the conflict between the judicial and executive branches, affecting the public’s trust in the courts and immigration policy. As of April 15, 2025, GCA Forums readers are Why sanctuary cities provoke disputes regarding policy differences affecting housing and economic equilibrium.

GCA Forums Discussion:

Has Boasberg’s position bolstered or weakened judicial credibility? Let us know your thoughts on the GCA Forums!

Top Housing News: Affordability Crisis Deepens

The high interest rates and general uncertainty within the economy reduced demand, leading to a decline in the housing market. As per National Association of Realtors (NAR) data, home sales plummeted by 3.7% in March 2025, while the median home price was $395,200.

GCA Forums News Key Stories:

Strains in inventory:

According to Zillow, supply increased to 4.3 months but remained under the 5–6 months equilibrium. Listings were up 30%, but demand remained low due to high interest, according to Realtor.com.

D.R. Horton builder woes:

According to a company statement, the company missed Q1 earnings due to a weak reporting spring season. This is consistent with your concern about the April 18, 2025 volatility.

YIMBY activity:

As CBS News reported, the YIMBY movement advocated for more dense construction to help fill the gap of underproduced housing, which, according to your April 16, 2025, blog post, could increase demand for multifamily rentals.

Why It Matters

The affordability issues raise interest and pedal the renters’ market, which is important for your audience and your focus as of April 12, 2025.

GCA Forums News Question:

Are you targeting rentals or sitting the market out? Join the GCA Forums!

Top Mortgage News – Rates Surge, Demand Falls

The surge in rates is putting additional strain on affordability once again. Freddie Mac reported the 30-year fixed rate surged to 6.83%, up from 6.62% the preceding week, according to the April 18, 2025 blog. According to the market data, the 10-year Treasury yield leveled off at 4.26%.

Key Stories:

Price Hike:

According to CNN Business, the rate has increased for the first time in two months, caused by tariff-related inflation fears. As I shared in your April 18, 2025, blog, the CPI, sitting at 3.4%, kept rates high.

Application Decline:

According to the Mortgage Bankers Association (MBA), we saw a decrease in purchase applications by 5% and total refinancing applications by 12%.

ARM Demand:

Adjustable-rate mortgages experienced a 15% surge during this period due to their lower initial rates (Example: A 7/1 ARM is priced at 6% variable for a fixed seven years). This surge was Attributable to Yahoo Finance, which aligns with your focus on non-QM mortgages dated April 8, 2025.

Bank Sponsorship:

JP Morgan and Wells Fargo have taken this approach, believing it would help lower the originations sent to the services. They note that purchasing mortgage-backed securities on certain savings accounts is a cheaper alternative to target advertising spending by the entities highlighted by Wells Fargo’s Q1 volume of $4.4 billion, as noted in your April 18, 2025, blog.

Primary Focus:

Your March 21, 2025, inquiry suggests high rates pose a challenge for buyers, but non-QM and VA loans offer relief.

Tip From the Experts:

Consult our GCA Forums to learn more about ARMs.

Latest in Industry News: Imports Hammer Down On Markets

Industry markets faced instability due to tariff speculation. As indicated in your April 18, 2025, post, the Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 443 points to 39,735, reflecting a 1.1% loss. Market data also indicates an increase in gold price to $3,325/oz in response to market instability.

Newsworthy Developments:

Blackstone’s warning:

Per your April 18, 2025, blog via Reuters, “Blackstone stated that they expect tariffs to increase the cost of commercial real estate by 10%.”

Restrained Lending from Banks:

The focus from March 28, 2025, indicates that housing is being impacted by the Basel Endgame rules, which prompted banks to curtail loans, per Yahoo Finance.

Tech Fumble:

The Semiconductor control further strained the Nasdaq, leading to a 2.7% decrease, as covered by X Posts.

Primary Focus:

Reflecting on your April 15, 2025 inquiry, vague policies affect business confidence, leading to reluctant spending on lending and housing.

Taboo Topic:

• Talk Strategies over Metal Shifting on GCA Forums!

Federal Reserve & Jerome Powell:

• The strained situation remains in the limelight.

As cited in your April 15, 2025 inquiry, rate cuts suggested by President Trump placed ‘Jerome Powell under pressure’ while claims of ‘elimination of Fed’ remained unsubstantiated.

Updates:

Rate Stance:

• Per your April 17, 2025 update, Powell’s rhetoric on April 16 has left the Fed funds rate at a stagnant 4.75%-5%, with no cuts in sight.

Trump’s Push:

• As per some X posts, Trump said 2.5%-3% would spur faster housing growth.

Powell’s Future:

• Based on a Reuters Article, he is slated to 2026 and seems likely to resist political interference.

Why It Matters:

• As you requested while reserved on April 16, 2025, these issues matter because mortgage rates are directly a function of Fed policy.

GCA Forums News Question:

• Will Trump sway the Fed? GCA Forums debate!

Trump’s Tariffs: Economic Ripples

Your April 16, 2025 blog says Trump’s 25% tariffs caused an 80% nosedive in trade with China from the US perspective.

Effects:

Economy:

• Economic modeling predicts the GDP to slow down by 0.9%.

Inflation:

• Per your April 18, 2025 blog, a 1.1% CPI increase in inflation is expected for Q3 2026.

Unemployment:

• Per your April 18, 2025 blog, a 0.6% increased unemployment rate is expected.

Housing:

• Elevated prices could suppress demand, as noted in your April 15, 2025 question.

Why It Matters:

• As you mentioned in your April 18, 2025 blog, border taxes and international expenses always increase costs and budgets.

Get Your Mark:

• Lock rates now. Join GCA Forums for tariff topics!

Sanctuary Cities: Chicago and Illinois Updates

Chicago and Illinois received attention for sanctuary policies, as you requested on April 15, 2025.

Updates:

Mayor Brandon Johnson:

• City sources said it maintained sanctuary status but suffered 3.4% property tax increases.
• No Verified claims regarding DOJ lawsuits “per your April 18, 2025′, question.”

Governor JB Pritzker:

• Policies were defended, yet there were no confirmed impacts on direct housing.
• According to the search results, claims about the DOJ lawsuits are unverified.

Market Impact:

• Increase in renting demand in Chicago by 5%, according to Rent.com

Why It Matters:

• Policies influence the housing market per your April 16, 2025 question.

GCA Forums News Discussion:

• In what way do sanctuary policies impact your market?
• Contribute to GCA Forums.

DEI in Housing: Mixed Effects

As you requested, DEI (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion) experienced rollbacks on April 15, 2025.

Updates:

Housing Access:

• Discrimination fines from DRE HUD lenders $16M, helping 23,000 minority buyers, per Fannie Mae

Policy Changes:

• Cancelation of DEI orders by Trump, as noted on your blog dated April 16, 2025, with no substantial delay, but, per industry research noted, significant approval delays.

Why It Matters:

• As discussed in your April 18, 2025 blog, DEI shapes lending policies.

GCA Forums News Question:

• Is DEI Benefiting Housing? Engage with the GCA Forums Debate!

Housing and Mortgage Industry Professionals: Volatility Management

According to your April 12, 2025, focus, these professionals managed high interest rates and market fluctuations.

Updates:

Loan Officers:

• Originations declined by 13%.
• Shifting to non-QM loans, according to your April 17, 2025, blog.

According to NAR, Real estate agents:

• Competed via virtual tools.

Processors:

• Managed 14% more manual underwriting, according to your April 17, 2025, blog.

Why It Matters?

• Professionals continue to drive resilience in answer to your April 9, 2025, question.
• Respond with your strategies in the GCA Forums!

Steering Through a Complicated Terrain

The Supreme Court reversing Boasberg’s orders displays the tension between the judicial and executive branches. But claiming he “looks like a fool” drastically simplifies a multi-layered case. In addition to these stories, your seasoned housing decisions and the financial slowdown and inflationary interest rate impacts complicate matters. Engage with GCA forums at GCAforums.com to meet the experts and strategize your next steps.

Next Steps:

• What are your views regarding Boasberg and the tariffs?
• Please take advantage of our mortgage calculators.

Please stay up to date, and let’s flourish together!